Second Annual ‘Day on the Hill’ Connects Direct Sellers, Policymakers

More than 400 independent direct selling consultants gathered in Washington, D.C. today for the Direct Selling Association’s second annual Direct Selling Day on Capitol Hill. Representing 28 companies and 30 states, the participants met with members of Congress to share personal stories of how direct selling has helped them create a better life.

Direct Selling Day on the Hill is a part of the DSA’s effort to effectively communicate the industry’s positive impact and secure vital political influence—two of the objectives laid out by DSA Chairman Truman Hunt at the beginning of his tenure.

DSA President Joseph Mariano spoke to DSN from Capitol Hill, where five members of Congress, both Democrats and Republicans, had spoken with the group about independence and entrepreneurship.

“We are thrilled that these individuals are giving Congress an appreciation of people in the field, because the real point of the day is to provide a backdrop for their successes and their challenges in daily life and in their businesses,” said Mariano. “We’re not here today to talk about specific legislation or ask for any funding. It’s about building relationships between the field people and members of Congress.”

About 90 direct sellers represented the industry at last year’s inaugural Day on Capitol Hill. This year’s participation has edged above 435, the goal set by the DSA to match the number of representatives in Congress.

“We’re bringing our own direct selling ‘congress’ to meet with representatives and share the ways that direct selling has personally impacted their lives,” Mariano shared.

In addition to meeting with members of Congress, participants have the opportunity to sign the Direct Selling Proclamation and Compact, which helps demonstrate to policymakers the economic and social impact of direct selling.

Companies across the industry can follow up on today’s initiative by encouraging their salespeople to sign the Proclamation, donating to the DSAPAC, and reaching out to their local, state and federal officials. The DSA also works with companies interested in hosting policymakers at visits to their headquarters.